Paul Finebaum Names SEC Program That Has 'Fallen Off a Cliff'

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Mar 29, 2025 9:00 PM ET

The 2025 college football season could mark the end of several coaches' tenures at their respective schools, including those who have spent many years in their current positions.

In a ranking by "The Athletic" of coaches in the SEC based on their job security, Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Stoops was listed as No. 4 on the hot seat. Stoops has had a long tenure at Kentucky, having taken over as head coach in 2013. He is tied with North Carolina State Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren as the sixth-longest tenured coach in college football.

Despite his long history with the Wildcats, this does not guarantee his job security. On "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum expressed concerns about the direction of the Kentucky program, indicating he is not pleased with where it stands.

"I think under the current construct, I do not see UK getting dramatically better," Finebaum said. "Mark Stoops really resurrected the program; he had it going for a long time. The problem is it has fallen off a cliff now. I don't see any reason to believe it's coming back. So, that's the issue."

Finebaum mentioned that he believes Stoops has contributed "everything under the sun," including enhanced facilities and significant support from management. However, he cautioned that if Stoops and Kentucky do not turn their situation around, it could signal the end of his tenure.

Stoops has had an impressive career at Kentucky, becoming the all-time winningest coach in the program's history. He has led the team to two 10-win seasons, while the Wildcats had only two such seasons prior to his arrival in 2013.

His overall record at Kentucky stands at 77-73, but he is coming off his worst season since 2013, finishing last year with a record of 4-8. In his first season, he recorded a dismal 2-10.

Stoops' contract complicates matters. If he were to be fired after the 2025 season, the buyout would be approximately $37.5 million. Furthermore, according to the third amendment of Stoops' contract, Kentucky would need to pay that amount within 60 days of a termination notice. This stipulation makes it challenging for the university to dismiss him.

Kentucky is set to open the season against Toledo on August 30th.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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